Malignant neoplasm of left lower limb

This code signifies the presence of a cancerous tumor originating in or metastasizing to the left lower extremity. This includes malignant neoplasms affecting the bones, soft tissues, or skin of the left hip, thigh, knee, lower leg, ankle, or foot.

Assign this code when documentation clearly specifies a primary or secondary malignant neoplasm located in the left lower limb. This is appropriate for diagnoses such as osteosarcoma of the left femur, melanoma of the left calf, or metastatic carcinoma to the left tibia. Ensure the laterality (left) is explicitly stated in the medical record.

• Always confirm the specific site and laterality of the malignancy from pathology reports or physician documentation.
• Do not use this code for benign neoplasms; refer to codes in the D10-D36 range.
• If the primary site of a metastatic tumor is known, sequence the primary malignancy code first, followed by this code as a secondary diagnosis.